Bhavana Pandey on daughter Ananya Panday being scrutinised: ‘Feel bad, but they’ve put themselves out there for judgement’

Q. What made you say yes to Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives? How have things changed for you post the show?

Bhavana Pandey: I took a long time to agree to do the show because I was nervous about how I would be perceived. I had never put myself or my life out there for people to judge. But, I’m glad I took the risk because it has all been good after that. I am doing exciting work.

Q. How does being recognised as Bhavana Pandey, and not as Chunky Pandey’s wife and Ananya Pandey’s mother, feel?

Bhavana Pandey: Yes, it’s true. Now, I have my own identity and it feels great. But my favorite is still “Ananya’s mother“.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bhavana Pandey (@bhavanapandey)

Q. Tell us a memorable, funny or bizarre incident involving a fan or public after the show’s success?

Bhavana Pandey: There’s nothing bizarre so far. What is amazing is that this show has a very strong male audience. Once, while on a flight, a uniformed captain approached me and said he loved the show. I found this surprising and delightful because usually such shows, and I’m not being sexist here, are typically expected to appeal to teenagers, youngsters, and women. It’s nice to see men enjoying it as well, especially a man in uniform.

Q. As a mother, how difficult is it to see your child being scrutinised for anything and everything, from movies to fashion?

Bhavana Pandey: It is very difficult, and you feel really bad and hurt. But, they’ve decided to put themselves out there for judgment and it’s okay to be judged. I think unnecessary criticism is not okay. Constructive criticism is always better, and that makes everyone better.

Q. Ananya, as we all know, loves to work out. Do you often join her? What is the secret to your good health and physique?

Bhavana Pandey: I love Pilates and yoga. We’ve done a few Pilates sessions together, but she’s way stronger than I am. So, we try not to do it together.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bhavana Pandey (@bhavanapandey)

Q. You keep up with style trends, and were also Manish Malhotra’s first muse for his bridal connection. How would you describe your fashion mantra?

Bhavana Pandey: I love being comfortable in whatever I’m wearing. I love colours and experimenting. You can give me any bizarre colour and I would love it. Red is my favorite.

Q. Do you stick to a strict diet plan? What do cheat meals look like?

Bhavana Pandey: No, not at all. I love eating burgers and truffle fries; which is why I am excited about this fun collaboration for KFC’s International Burger Fest.

Q. On a scale of 1-10, how much of your real self do you put out on the show?

Bhavana Pandey: 10, without any doubt.